Leh, Mar 28: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has announced the approval of a ₹1,196.22 crore tunnel project at Fotu La Pass in Ladakh, aimed at ensuring safer and all-weather connectivity on the crucial Srinagar–Leh highway.
Sharing the update on social media, Gadkari said the project involves construction of a unidirectional twin-tube tunnel along with approach roads across Fotu La on National Highway-01. The highway, which connects Uri, Srinagar and Leh, passes through Fotu La at an altitude of around 4,108 metres, making it the highest point on the route.
📢Ladakh🛣️
In the Union Territory of Ladakh, we have approved ₹1196.22 crore for the construction of a unidirectional twin-tube tunnel, along with approach roads, across Fotu La Pass on National Highway 1.
NH-01 (Uri–Srinagar–Leh) traverses Fotu La at an altitude of…
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) March 27, 2026
He noted that the stretch serves as a vital strategic corridor and the primary supply route to Ladakh, but remains prone to disruptions due to steep gradients, sharp hairpin bends, and heavy snowfall during winters.
According to the minister, the project will span a total length of 2.65 kilometres, including a 1.96-km twin-tube tunnel and 0.69 km of approach roads. Once completed, it is expected to reduce travel distance by about 8.5 kilometres and significantly improve safety and efficiency along the route.
Reacting to the announcement, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena expressed gratitude to the Union Minister for supporting infrastructure development in the Union Territory.
Thank you @nitin_gadkari ji, for supporting UT Ladakh. This project would significantly boost the road infrastructure and tourism in Ladakh. https://t.co/NVUj0j9KcG
— LG Ladakh (@lg_ladakh) March 27, 2026
He said the project would substantially strengthen road infrastructure and give a major boost to tourism in Ladakh, besides enhancing overall connectivity in the region.
The approval is part of the Centre’s broader push to upgrade infrastructure in border areas and ensure seamless connectivity to strategically important regions like Ladakh.
